July 11th, 2025
The Fair Races Are Back - Officials Announce It’s Return In 2025
The Fair Races Are Back – Officials
Announce It’s Return In 2025
Fair Hill, MD 7/11/2025
After a five-year absence, horse racing is set to return to the historic Fair Hill track, bringing renewed energy and excitement to Cecil County.
Officials from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Maryland Sports Commission, and local leaders gathered this week to celebrate the long-awaited revival of racing at Fair Hill. The event marked a major milestone for the region, with the first races officially scheduled for late August under the title “The Races at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory.”
Secretary Josh Kurtz of the DNR announced the return, calling the project a testament to deep community partnerships and public-private collaboration. “We are committed to maximizing the use of this world-class equestrian facility for economic, cultural, and community benefit,” said Kurtz.
Built by William duPont Jr. and inspired by England’s famed Aintree Racecourse, the Fair Hill track has a storied past. The return of racing restores a cherished tradition last seen in 2019. “It’s more than a sport—it’s a homecoming,” said Steve Connelly, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and lifelong Cecil County resident. “This is where neighbors reunite and memories are made.”
The redevelopment effort included extensive turf upgrades, a $20 million investment, and new partnerships with the horse industry and local government. Delegate Kevin Hornberger called the relaunch a “renaissance of racing,” highlighting progress on legislation and infrastructure that set the stage for Fair Hill’s future as a premier destination for equestrian sports.
County Executive Adam Streight called it “a huge win for Cecil County,” emphasizing the event’s role in strengthening community bonds and local pride. The Maryland Sports Commission echoed those sentiments, vowing to uphold the legacy and expand Fair Hill’s reputation as a global equestrian hub.
With flat racing, steeplechase, international eventing, and off-track betting on the horizon, stakeholders say the return of Fair Hill racing is just the beginning. “We want this to be the equestrian facility the world looks to,” said Maryland Sports Commission Executive Director Terry Hasseltine.
The first races are scheduled for the end of August.
